C13 Engines for Caterpillar Built Machines Caterpillar

Coolant Level Is Low

Usage:

Use this procedure to troubleshoot low coolant level or use this procedure if one of the codes in Table 1 is active.

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Table 1
Diagnostic Trouble Codes
CDL Code and Description	Comments
E2143 (1) Low Engine Coolant Level - least severe (1)	The engine has been running for 60 seconds. The engine coolant level has fallen below the coolant level sensor for the specified delay time. The code is logged.
E2143 (2) Low Engine Coolant Level - moderate severity (2)	The engine has been running for 60 seconds. The engine coolant level has fallen below the coolant level sensor for the specified delay time. Engine power is derated. The code is logged.
E2143 (3) Low Engine Coolant Level - most severe (3)	The engine has been running for 60 seconds. The engine coolant level has fallen below the coolant level sensor for the specified delay time. Engine power is derated. The code is logged.

Probable Causes

Low coolant level
Coolant leakage
Air in cooling system
Incorrect anti-freeze mixture
Coolant level sensor

Recommended Actions

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Table 2
Troubleshooting Test Steps	Values	Results
1. Check for Low Coolant Level. A. Inspect the coolant level.	Coolant Level	Result: The engine coolant level is OK. Proceed to Test Step 5. Result : The engine coolant level is NOT OK. Repair : Fill the coolant tank to the proper level if necessary. Proceed to Test Step 2.
2. Check the Cooling System for Leaks.	Cooling system	Result : The cooling system is OK. Proceed to Test Step 3. Result: The cooling system is NOT OK. Repair: Refer to Systems Operation/Testing and Adjusting, "Cooling System - Test" for the correct procedure. Repair any leaks immediately. If the problem is not resolved, proceed to Test Step 3.
3. Check for Air in the Cooling System.	Cooling system	Result : The cooling system is OK. Proceed to Test Step 4. Result : There is air in the cooling system. Repair : Refer to Systems Operation/Testing and Adjusting, "Testing the Cooling System" for the correct procedure. If the problem is not resolved, proceed to Test Step 4.
4. Check for the Correct Mixture of Antifreeze and Water.	Antifreeze mixture	Result : The antifreeze and water mixture is OK. Proceed to Test Step 5. Result : The antifreeze and water mixture is NOT OK. Repair : Refer to the Operation and Maintenance Manual. If the problem is not resolved, proceed to Test Step 5.
5. Check for a Faulty Coolant Level Sensor A. If an electrical problem with the coolant level sensor is suspected, refer to Troubleshooting, "Coolant Level - Test" for information that is related to troubleshooting an electrical problem with the coolant level sensor.	Coolant Level Sensor	Result: The coolant level sensor is not operating properly. Repair: Replace the coolant level sensor.

If the procedure did not correct the issue, contact your Technical Communicator (TC). For further assistance, the TC can confer with the Dealer Solutions Network (DSN).